Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

jander111 · June 2003

One dealer here charge $80 + tax, disposal, etc to drop the pan. (Differential included.) Another dealer charge $120 to do a power flush. Most chain stores do it for around $100. I guess differential is not include.

Many people don't like the idea of "flush". A couple of mechanics said if you want a flush, only let dealer do it. Don't know what they mean.

toledo19 · June 2003

Hertz car sales here in CA has 18 02 Camrys at 14,500. Anybody ever buy from Hertz? Also would these rental cars have remote keyless entry? Seems like a good price.

sbell4 · June 2003

Fleet cars usually will not have keyless or power driver seat for a 2002 but will probably have ABS.

canoe2 · June 2003

There is not clear in manual that A/C turns ON for selector at windshield position. But I noticed yesterday at windshield position, the inside air was slightly cooler than outside air and the car was dripping water afterward. It was sure the A/C automatically turned on.
Yes, I have LE V6 with VVT-i 5 sp. I drove V6 without VVT-i 4sp a year ago, I could not tell any differences between two for acceleration, but definitely the RPM for 5 SP was lower in cruising mode.

dilemma · June 2003

We are still struggling with a choice of a new Accord or Camry--We have arrived at seat comfort and rattle (wife) issues--seems there is a lot of comments about seat comfort and rattles on other boards about the Camry--Another question--Does the Camry V6 with 5spd AT require more than regular gas?? Regular in this part of the country is 85 octane with Plus and Premium going up from there (I think "Plus" is 86 Octane)-Honda Accord apparently can get by with the 85 Octane for both 4cyl and V6.
Help!

rchinn · June 2003

I have a 2000 Camry, 27000 miles, almost 3 years old. Time for the 30K maintenance service now? Or should it have been done earlier? Also: last oil change was 4 months and 2500 miles ago -- when should I do the next one?

drmp · June 2003

I'll email the picture of thigh support extension.

alpha01 · June 2003

The 30,000 mile servicing should be done around that mark. Don't do it now, just do an oil and filter, and have the big servicing done at 30K. At least, thats what I'd do. Very low miles, by the way, for a 2000- do you do mostly short trips? More frequent maintenance is probably better- though year round short trips in the NYC metro area is a lot different than year round short trips in Fort Lauderdale.
~alpha

rutger3 · June 2003

Prices given above are good compared to what I was quoted on our 2001 Mazda MPV. The dealer wanted $115 for regular drain/refill. Local car repair chain shop wants $120 for full flush,without a filter. This tran issue has become too complicated. Drain or flush? Clean or replace filter? Owners manual, dealer,and local shop all have different opinions on when it should be done.

dcmike · June 2003

Drmp, I have the same seat issue as gonkraz. Please send a copy of the extension my way also if possible (jmkelsey17@hotmail.com).
I am really close to unloading the Camry, as my knees just can't that seat anymore. Looked at 00 Maxima SE today for $17,500 - may just pull the trigger and take the loss. Pretty sad, only 17K on my 02 XLE V6.

heymista · June 2003

I am interested in purchasing a 4cyl Camry SE, and I'm a little concerned about buying now because Toyota usually makes a few changes in the 3rd year of a model. Has anyone heard any rumors on the 2004?

sandman46 · June 2003

I think they make the changes in the 4th year actually. This happened in the '92-'96 models, the change happened in '95. In the '97-'01 modls, the change took place in '00.
Someone please correct me if I am wrong about this with Toyotas.

The Sandman, an ex Toyota owner after 15 years :-(

doogs37 · June 2003

I have recently discovered that my 99 Camry (68,000)stalls when it is wet outside. This has happened on two occasions. I brought to the dealer and they said I needed new spark plugs, wiring, and an arching system. Cost was $300. It did appear to fix the problem as it rains pretty much every day here in the northeast. Anyone else have any problems with your car stalling when it is wet outside?

i_luv_toyota · June 2003

Expect a minor restyle for 2005 (should arrive in Sept of 04). The major redesign doesn't come until 2007.

dcmike · June 2003

I have an 02 V6 Camry XLE loaded (Aspen Green, 12K miles)with everything except Nav. I noticed during one of our recent rainstorms in the DC area that the passenger side airbag (side, not front) was leaking a fair amount of water into the vehicle. I called my local dealer, they had never heard of this happening before. Anyone else have this happening? Should I call Toyota or take it to my dealer? Thanks!

deni3 · June 2003

I have a 2002 Camry and now need to replace the
air conditioning filter behind the glove compartment. It seems that Toyota, exercising some monopoly power, wants $50 for a simple air
filter. Other parts stores do not as yet have
a "generic" filter to substitute. Is it advisable to clean the existing filter, or can I get the filter elsewhere?

camrysev6owner · June 2003

The A/C does kick in automatically in my 03 Camry SE V6 as well. It's just that I never realized it because it's really quiet. With the 97 Camry LE 4 cylinder I used to have, turning on the A/C would lead to a pretty obvious noise and less power.

Just wondering, if the A/C comes on automatically in windshield defogging mode but the green light doesn't light up, do I have the press the A/C button twice to turn the A/C off? For example, pressing it once so that the green light comes on, then again so that the A/C can shut off?

Sometimes, as you said, the A/C is not needed for little defogging. Just like you, I want to less stress on the A/C so that it can last longer.

That's a really nice engine you have. V6 VVTI 5 spd. With lower RPM while cruising you can get better fuel economy. And it's manual so that's even better on gas!

Enjoy your new car!

camrysev6owner · June 2003

To the host of this website,

I have seen on other Toyota sites that there is a place where owners can share photos of their cars with others.

Considering how popular this website is already, it would be even better with photos!

pat · June 2003

Yeah, I agree. We don't have the storage space for folks to upload their pictures at this time, but here is a post that details how to display your pictures if they are hosted on another site:

KarenS "Camry Owners: Photo Gallery" Dec 7, 2001 11:56am

alpha01 · June 2003

I think the SE 4cylinder is the best value of the Camry line, especially if you like a more athletic suspension and steering feel. For 2003, the SE 4cylinder gained the following major options as standard equipment, with little/no MSRP increase: keyless entry, power drivers seat, power glass moonroof.

About pricing, here's how I'd option an SE 4 auto:
Base SE 4 auto plus Alloys, ABS, Side Curtains, Carpeted Trunk/Floor mats, Rear Spoiler:

MSRP: $23,019
Invoice: $20,750
CarsDirect.com price: $19,950 (includes incentives available in NJ)

Not sure if you can actually get one like that due to regional restrictions, but I think thats a great deal, especially with the incentives available.

~alpha

dudleyr · June 2003

To me the LE 4 is the best value. $16,500 right now including delivery with the manual tranny. I think it looks better than the SE because it does not have the go fast wing on the back (realize it can be deleted, but most SE's have it), or those trendy silver gauges that are harder to read. I do like the black upholstry though, and could give or take the sportier suspension (still not a sports car) Also the sunroof takes away too much head room and makes the front barely useable and the rear unuseable for me.

I really don't like this trend towards standard sunroofs - it is a deal breaker for many people. Just keep it optional, then if a buyer wants it they can have it, if they don't want it then they don't have to get it.

alpha01 · June 2003

but a standard sunroof at no price increase is better than an optional sunroof at plus 900$$, which is the case of the Camry SEs and XLE V6s. Shorter people suffer hardships, and so do taller people....

the sunroof, the spoiler, and power drivers seat are available, I believe, as delete credits. Camry LEs with stick rarely have ABS, a necessary safety feature, IMO, in a car of this ilk.

My vote for best Camry value still goes to the SE 4 (equipped as I outlined) for best mix of performance, features, safety, quality, and price.

~alpha

dudleyr · June 2003

There is no such thing as a free lunch though. They could just drop the price instead of making the sunroof standard - it would accomplish the same thing. People who wanted to, could use the savings to get the sunroof.

Didn't know the roof could be deleted for credit, that would of course accomplish the same thing as I mentioned above.

I hear ya on the lack of ABS on 5-speed LE's - that is why I hope it is standard next year (about the only way I would be able to get it)

nhepker1 · June 2003

Hey dudleyr, Just wondering how tall are you? I just bought an SE with sunroof and I still have about an inch of headroom left and I'm 6'4". That's actually why I moved up from my Corolla.

Alpha01 - Here in the midwest that's close to how all the SE's are equipped, but instead of the side curtains, they all have the indash 6-disc cd changer.

jbkennedy · June 2003

Does the Camry have a power trunk release option or is the only trunk release is the manual one by the drivers seat?

lok888 · June 2003

alpha01 - I bought mine for $20388 (MSRP was $234??) with everything that you mentioned but without the side airbag. I live in MA. Your price seems very good. But getting one is a little bit harder than for LE (both 4 and 6), at least in my area because there are not too many SEs made.

nhepker1 - For the headroom space with sunroof, I think the reason is because some people have long legs but with short torse.

jkennedy - In my SE, it is power release on the remote. I have press and hold it for two seconds. But it is manual release by the driver's seat.

1200mk · June 2003

Is that 20388 w/ tax?

I got a price from a dealer for a v6 se for around 22500 (out the door).

Good price?

lok888 · June 2003

It was before 5% of MA sale tax. I think it was fair price. I called several dealers and none of them have SE 4 cyl. And my had at least three: two lunar mist and one black. I didn't look at V6 at (both LE and SE) because it is for my wife. She doesn't care about it. I think there will be some incoming but most equipped with more options like SE Premium Package which we don't want. Anyway, yours has a good price before tax.

Anyone - I found the trunk release at the driver's side has no lock unlike most cars. So everyone can open the trunk once I can the door open. Is there any lock inside the keyhole at the trunk?

scottdude · June 2003

It seems like most Camry owners rave about how smooth the ride is. I understand the SE version has a sportier suspension, but would you SE owners still descibe the ride as comfortable and smooth, espcially over rough roads?

camrysev6owner · June 2003

I owned a 97 Camry LE known for its smooth and comfortable ride over even rougher pavements. I've traded it in for a new SE version and I wasn't used to the suspension at first, especially over rough pavements. It's a lot bumpier than the old one. But as I got used to it, I find it quite comfortable and smooth to ride in, little bumpy on rough pavements but bearable.

So I have concluded that it was because I was so used to the suspension in my old Camry that was softer than most of the cars in its class, I would think that any other cars are bumpy. When I don't compare the SE to the normal Camry suspension setting, it's actually very comfortable and smooth. I find it better because the old suspension configuration is too bouncy for my taste (Just like the old Cadillacs).

lok888 · June 2003

I wasn't get used to the SE suspension. I test drove the LE before I buy the SE. LE's ride is much smoother. It is not bad on the highway and smooth roads. It has more juice even with a 4 cylinder engine. Mine still isn't finish run in yet. So I only keep it under 60 mph.

I think Toyota should do better job as its Camry SE. At least to more horsepower on the V6 engine. And SE just meant Special Edition to me. They have give more juice on sport sedan to compete the Nissan Maxima SE, Honda Accord and any mid-size sport sedans. It is too good to learn Toyota will use 3.3L V6 on SE with 220 to 230 hp. I would like to see if they have the cross drilled disc rotors.

lok888 · June 2003

I just learned it can be locked from the rear of the trunk. Just turn the master key left in the keyhole and you can't open the trunk with the trunk release handle at the driver's side. I thought Toyota has forgotten about it.

BTW, does anyone know those rear headrests are adjustable?

dudleyr · June 2003

lok88 is correct - I have a long torso (6' with a 32" inseam), and I also do not slouch forward while I drive (cursed with good posture). Consequently headroom is often a problem. I can just fit in the front seat, but have to basically rest my chin on my chest if I ever sit in the rear seat. Without the sunroof the front seat has plenty of room, and my head gently touches the roof in the rear seat. This is one reason I like station wagons (more rear head room).

I wish Toyota still made a station wagon. The Matrix is much smaller than a Corolla wagon would be, uses quite a bit more fuel, and does not look as nice, so I don't see much point to it. I know the Highlander is supposed to be the Camry wagon, but get serious, it is a gas hog compared to the 4-cyl Camry, does not handle nearly as well, and is not available with a manual transmission.

Right now I consider the Camry and Accord to be about equel. If one of them is ever available in a wagon that will seal the deal. Since I doubt that will ever happen, I will probably settle for a Mazda 6 wagon next year.

It is beyond me how people could prefer an SUV that gets 20 mpg hwy to a camcord that gets 33/34 highway that would have just as much cargo room as an SUV if it were a wagon, and wins hands down for ride and handling.

Of course image is everything! If you can't actually be macho, you can make up for it by driving a vehicle that tries to look the part.

tester2 · June 2003

I had a quick look on the dipstick (it was poor lighting) and in the owners manual and I cannot find out how to check the trans fluid on a 4 cylinder 2002 Camry. Warm engine? Cold engine? Neutral? Park? Where are the instructions for this?
There is a label on the dipstick that says under normal driving you never have to change the fluid. Since the trans pan has a convenient drain plug I think I would do it every few years. Comments welcome.

masspector · June 2003

If you want a wagon, I think the passat wagon is very nice. I almost considered it over my camry, but it is more expensive. Also, not sure how you would do it, but I think they sell an accord wagon in the UK. Not sure how you would get it legal for the US, but it is nice looking too. Honda may sell a version with the steering wheel on the "right" side on the continent.

rutger3 · June 2003

I agree that a wagon version of the camry or accord would be welcome and an excellent alternative to an suv. The passat is nice but too expensive. Have you considered a subaru legacy wagon? It should be less than the passat, better on gas than an suv,and pretty dependable. It does have awd,which holds the mileage down a bit. The taurus wagon looks old and has average liability. The volvo/saab are expensive and not many dealers around. Perhaps toyota and honda have research that shows there is not enough demand for a wagon.

dudleyr · June 2003

I have considered the Subaru Wagon, and generally like it very much, I just can't pull the trigger on a 4-cyl manual tranny car that gets worse mileage than a full sized v-6 Buick.

The Passat is an excellent car, and I rank it above the Camry and Accord, but it is more expensive than Camry and Accord, uses a tad more fuel, and I am a touch concerned about reliability (especially since the nearest dealer is almost 200 miles away). My father has a Passat wagon, and has not had a single problem in 75,000 miles though (original brakes clutch etc.)

If VW made a Passat wagon with the new 130 hp 240 ft-lbs diesel engine and a manual tranny, that would about be my dream car, and I would find a way to swing it. Imagine getting 50 mpg on the highway, having more torque than a 530i, and as much space as a midsize SUV (highlander class).

This engine will be available next year, but unfortunately only with an automatic, and not in the station wagon.

So for now I look to the future, and hope somebody will make a car that suits me. I may even end up with a sedan (like the Camry) since I have a minivan for when I need to haul stuff, but would prefer a station wagon.

scottdude · June 2003

Does anyone know if the Camry has some good owner web sites? The kind that have forums, photos posted, etc.

pat · June 2003

Wellll, this is a pretty good one! ;-)

Have you checked out the Camry Owners Club? There is a link at the top of this page.

Let me just mention that the Membership Agreement prohibits promotion of other automotive message boards....

If you haven't checked out all of the discussions in the Owners Club, you really ought to do so.

optimist2 · June 2003

I have a dilemma and I am hoping to get some advice from this forum.

Now that my wife and I have had our first child I am looking for a car with
1) the most safety features (goal is to have the best chance of both surviving an accident and not suffering any major injuries) and
2) the highest reliability (for the first 5-7 years i'd like to go to the dealer to change oil and do scheduled maint. only)

Yes, I know i want the sun and the moon, but this is what my research has guided me to:

I am looking at two options of almost identical price ($20,000 invoice plus tax, license and fees). this is within my budget.
1-Passat GL 5 manual with all front and side airbags for driver and passenger, curtain airbags, ABS, traction control and Electronic stability and 4-year warranty
2-Camry SE 5 manual with all airbags, ABS (NO antiskid or Electronic stability available) premium package with leather, and fog lights and 3-year warranty.

crash tests from NHTSA are similar for both vehicles:
Passat: 5 stars frontal crash driver, 5 stars frontal crash passenger, 4 stars side crash front, 4 stars side crash rear
Camry: 5 stars frontal driver, 4 stars frontal passenger, 3 stars side crash front, 5 stars side crash rear
From Highway safety institute
Passat: GOOD (highest rating) in all except average in restraint/dummy movement
Camry: GOOD (highest rating) in all except average in foot/leg injury right front seat.

I love the passat but i really do not want to deal with maint. problems (I have only owned japanese cars: a Subaru GL10 '85, a mazda protege '98 and a rav4 '99-all extremely reliable). Do antiskid and electr. stability really add significant value to the safety package of the passat? that woluld settle the issue and convince me to buy the camry (i don't mind having a more luxurious car as the passat is supposed to be but it's not a deal breaker for me plus the camry is suposed to be more quiet and i like a quiet car).

On the other hand, I wonder if it's not worth dealing with some limited (apparently) maint. hassles to get the most safety features.

I know i cannot go wrong with either choice but I would still value your opinions so as not to leave it to the flip of a coin.

thank you
optimist2

alpha01 · June 2003

"Camry: 5 stars frontal driver, 4 stars frontal passenger, 3 stars side crash front, 5 stars side crash rear"

These side crash results are for the non-side airbag/curtain equipped Camry, I'd imagine that having this option would increase the Camry's score. (Heaven forbid the goverment make a logical move by testing ALL TWO versions of the nation's highest selling car).

~alpha

rutger3 · June 2003

If safety is your main priority then the passat is better. I believe it comes standard with side airbags with head protection. You will pay more for the passat though. The camry is still good on safety expecially with the side bags.Camry should also be more reliable, just be sure you are comfortable with the front seats. Tough call.
BTW, the real answer is not testing more versions of all cars, but the gov't should make side airbags with head protection standard on every vehicle. Is there anyone who doesn't want to be safer,if not for themselves,then for their passengers. The technology is here and the cost would not be substancial. When something that proves it will save lives is an option,there is something very wrong.

alpha01 · June 2003

But, until that standard is set, I'd like to see more vehicles tested.

~alpha

canoe2 · June 2003

Not sure this is a good idea in term of response for 2002/3 Camry. I found there was a lag in response of throttle for acceleration and de-acceleration (braking).
Sometimes I noticed the RPM was slightly up and then it came down when I braked ( I was expecting RPM would be down when ever you pressed on brake).

drmp · June 2003

RPM rising when braking is good, it means the transmission is downshifting and helping to slow down the car. That shift algorithn is what I miss in a rear wheel drive car since engineers doesn't want to give too much braking force to the rear that could result to a spin out when cornering.

vs4 · July 2003

Any info on what will be changed on 2004 camry beside 210hp V6 engine?

Thanks.

masspector · July 2003

you better watch out. some of the regulars here on town hall might tar and feather you as a "liberal" for suggesting that the govt mandate side airbags.

I agree with you 100%. A new safety feature that can safe lives should be mandatory on all vehicles.

alpha01 · July 2003

I am fully in favor of side impact protection. I am actually a bit surprised it hasnt garnered more attention in the past, given that it is one of the most fatal types of accidents, which makes sense, given that there is comparatively no crush space to act as a protection barrier.

My only concern with mandated side curtains or side restraints hinges on the same issues that were problems for the introductory frontal airbags- unnecessary deployment at low speeds (which was mainly due to an ill designed government impact standard for unbelted dummies at 30MPH)and the risk of injury to children- in this case, children sleeping with their heads near the C pillars and/or doors.

~alpha

masspector · July 2003

very good points

alpha01 · July 2003

Can any of the aficianados here elaborate on the Camry model codes. Perhaps "model codes" isnt the correct terminology, but, as an example, here is what I am referring to:

"2532C"
"2532E"
"2548A"

and so on.

Thanks!
~alpha

Toyota Camry 2006 and earlier

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